Lunch: Buttermilk Baked Chicken with Spinach Salad

Herbes de Provence is a combination of dried herbs traditionally used in southern French cooking. Most often, it consists of rosemary, marjoram, basil, savory, thyme, and sometimes lavender. Look for it in the spice aisle.

This recipe includes superfoods such as:

Chicken Breast, Spinach, Honey

Health benefits of Buttermilk Baked Chicken with Spinach Salad

Skinless chicken breast, often heralded for its lean nutritional profile, is undeniably a powerhouse when it comes to protein content. With an impressive 21 grams of protein packed into every 100 grams of the breast, it emerges as a preferred choice for those conscious about their protein intake. Delving deeper into the nutritional matrix of chicken, one can't overlook the copious amounts of vitamin B6 it houses. This particular vitamin plays an indispensable role in our body, especially when discussing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) management.

For individuals grappling with PCOS, the internal hormonal turbulence can be overwhelming, often leading to a spike in testosterone and androgen levels. This is where vitamin B6 comes into the spotlight. Acting as a balancer, vitamin B6 diligently works behind the scenes to keep these hormones in check, ensuring they don't surge beyond desirable levels. It is this equilibrium that becomes paramount for those earnestly looking to curtail the excessive flow of testosterone and androgen. In the broader spectrum of PCOS management, incorporating foods rich in vitamin B6, like chicken breast, can be a strategic move, providing both nutritional sustenance and hormonal balance.

Spinach is a nutrient-dense leafy green vegetable that is rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as iron, magnesium, and antioxidants. The high iron content in spinach helps combat anemia, which is common in women with PCOS. Magnesium helps reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. The antioxidants in spinach can help lower oxidative stress, which is beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Including spinach in your diet can support overall health and well-being.

Honey, often hailed as a superfood, possesses a wealth of nutritional benefits that make it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. With a glycemic index (GI) of 55 for one tablespoon, honey is considered a moderate GI food. This means it does not spike blood sugar levels as high or as quickly as high-GI foods, making it a better choice for maintaining steady energy levels and supporting overall health.

Rich in antioxidants, including phenolic acids and flavonoids, honey offers protective benefits against oxidative stress and inflammation. These antioxidants can help combat the damage caused by free radicals, which are linked to chronic conditions such as heart disease and cancer. Furthermore, the natural sugars in honey can provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent option for a pre-workout snack or a natural sweetener in beverages and meals.

Honey's benefits extend beyond its nutritional profile. Its antimicrobial properties make it a natural remedy for wounds and burns, promoting healing by providing a moist environment and acting as a barrier to infection. Additionally, honey has been used for centuries to soothe sore throats and coughs, thanks to its ability to coat the throat and reduce irritation.

However, it's important to consume honey in moderation. While it is a healthier alternative to refined sugar, it is still a form of sugar and can contribute to weight gain and other health issues if consumed in large amounts. For individuals with diabetes or those monitoring their blood sugar levels, it's crucial to account for honey's GI and its effects on blood sugar.

Choosing raw, unprocessed honey can also maximize its health benefits. Raw honey is more likely to retain its antioxidants and other beneficial compounds that can be lost during processing. Incorporating honey into your diet can be as simple as adding it to yogurt, drizzling it over oatmeal, or blending it into smoothies. Its natural sweetness and health-promoting properties make honey a superfood worth including in a healthy, balanced diet.

Ingredients

2 1/4 c. low-fat buttermilk
3 tbsp. honey
1 tsp. honey
6 clove garlic
Coarse salt and ground pepper
4 bone-in chicken breast halves
2 tbsp. reduced-fat sour cream
1 tbsp. cider vinegar
3 slice white sandwich bread
2 tsp. olive oil
3/4 tsp. herbes de Provence
1 bag baby spinach
1 medium red apple
1 c. seedless red grapes

Instructions

Make marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together 2 cups buttermilk, 3 tablespoons honey, garlic, 2 teaspoons coarse salt, and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Place chicken in a resealable plastic bag (or baking dish); add marinade and seal (or cover). Refrigerate at least 2 hours or up to 1 day.
Make salad dressing: In a jar, combine remaining 1/4 cup buttermilk, sour cream, vinegar, and 1 teaspoon honey; season generously with salt and pepper. Shake vigorously to combine. Refrigerate.
Preheat oven to 425 degrees. In a food processor, pulse bread, oil, and Herbes de Provence until fine crumbs form; season generously with salt and pepper (you should have about 1 1/2 cups).
Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil. Lift chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off (discard remaining marinade). Place chicken on foil, bone side down; sprinkle with breadcrumbs, patting them on lightly. Bake until crumbs are browned and chicken is cooked through, 30 to 40 minutes.
Meanwhile, in a large bowl, combine spinach, apple, and grapes. Add dressing and toss. Serve salad with chicken.